Classic pose of the White-breasted Nuthatch

Yesterday afternoon, 13 November 2014, I called in at Fish Creek Park. My intention had been to get over to the park a few hours earlier, but that didn't happen. As it turned out, I couldn't have chosen a better time to arrive, even if I had planned it. I started walking along a narrow path and, out of the corner of my eye, I saw fast movement - it was a little Long-tailed Weasel running through the snow, with just part of its body seen. When I got closer, I lost sight of it for a few moments, and then suddenly it reappeared, running back in my direction. It disappeared for a second or two and then came back into sight up on this log, with a Meadow Vole in its mouth. Dodging the trees that were closest to me, I was just in time to click the shutter, not even sure if I had captured any of this amazing sight. I quickly took another shot in the same direction, but the Weasel had vanished and I didn't see where it went. I waited around for a short while - it was SO cold out - but maybe the Weasel felt like a nap after eating its catch. Such a treat to see this animal, wearing its white, winter coat. I have seen just a handful of them before and its always a challenge to get any photos. Can't believe how lucky I was, including the fact that I didn't have far to walk - always much appreciated, with my back being so painful and usually stopping me from going for walks.

This White-breasted Nuthatch and its mate were hanging around while I was hoping for the Weasel to appear again. Poor little thing, feathers all puffed out to keep itself warm.

My apologies to anyone who may have been down to that area time after time, hoping to see the animal, but always in vain : ) Most of us know what that is like, lol.

Early this morning, the temperature is -14C, with a windchill of -21C (7F with windchill -6F). I see it snowed overnight, just enough to cover the car with a thin, white layer. Really hoping its snow, not ice. I'm thinking about getting snow tires this year, the first time ever. I've always used All Season tires year round.